The Asia Cup 2025 handshake row has taken a new twist after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) posted a muted video. The clip featured skipper Salman Ali Agha, head coach Mike Hesson, and a PCB official in conversation with match referee Andy Pycroft.
How the Handshake Row Started
The controversy began during the India vs Pakistan clash on September 14, 2025. It was their first meeting after the tragic Pahalgam incident. Calls for an Indian boycott dominated the build-up, but the team played and expressed dissent in another way.
At the toss, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav avoided a handshake with Salman Ali Agha. After India’s victory, players again refused to greet Pakistan. Clips of Suryakumar closing the dressing room doors quickly spread across social media. Salman Ali Agha responded by skipping the post-match presentation.
Pakistan Lodged Protest and Threatened Boycott
Pakistan’s management soon filed an official protest. They claimed India’s refusal to shake hands broke the spirit of the game. Their demand was clear: remove Andy Pycroft from their matches or face a possible boycott.
The row escalated further before the Pakistan vs UAE clash. The game started an hour late after Pakistan hesitated to take the field.
PCB’s Video Backfires Online
The PCB attempted to strengthen its case by sharing a muted video. The post implied Pycroft apologized during the meeting. Instead of gaining support, the move attracted widespread mockery.
Fans flooded social media with sarcastic comments. Many called PCB’s attempt desperate. One user wrote, “Posting a muted video and expecting people to believe your narrative is laughable.” Another added, “This isn’t an apology, it’s pure damage control.”
Asia Cup 2025 Under a Cloud
The Asia Cup 2025 now faces headlines dominated by off-field drama rather than cricketing brilliance. What began as India’s symbolic protest has spiraled into a political flashpoint.
With PCB holding firm and fans divided, the controversy continues to overshadow the tournament. Whether Pakistan maintains its demand or focuses on performance remains to be seen.
Stay tuned for all the latest Cricket news, match highlights, player analysis and viral moments!